A Gastrointestinal (GI) doctor, also known as a gastroenterologist, specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the digestive system. This includes the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Common reasons to see a GI doctor include chronic heartburn, abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and more. GI doctors play a critical role in managing post-operative care for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery to ensure proper digestion and... +More

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, caused by infections (commonly H. pylori), prolonged use of NSAIDs, alcohol consumption, or stress. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and bloating. Treatment typically involves antacids, antibiotics (if infection is present), and lifestyle changes like dietary modifications.

Feeling sick in your stomach can indicate nausea, indigestion, or an underlying condition such as gastritis, food intolerance, or stress. If persistent, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

A gastrectomy is the surgical removal of part or all of the stomach. It is often performed to treat stomach cancer, severe ulcers, or obesity. A partial gastrectomy removes only a portion, while a total gastrectomy removes the entire stomach, requiring significant lifestyle changes post-surgery.

Common gastrology symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. These symptoms may indicate a range of conditions from gastritis to more serious issues like ulcers or gastrointestinal cancers.

A sleeve diet plan involves gradual dietary progression after surgery, focusing on protein-rich foods, minimal carbohydrates, and small portion sizes. Long-term, patients must continue eating nutrient-dense, low-calorie meals to maintain weight loss. Key components include lean meats, vegetables, whole grains, and avoiding sugary and fatty foods.

Gastritis is a condition where the stomach lining becomes inflamed, often due to factors such as excessive alcohol use, prolonged medication (NSAIDs), or bacterial infections. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and treatment usually involves addressing the root cause, such as medication or lifestyle changes.

The term bariatric refers to the branch of medicine focused on the prevention and treatment of obesity and related disorders. Bariatric procedures, such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, are designed to help patients achieve significant, long-term weight loss when other methods like diet and exercise have failed.

In the UK, gastroenterology is a well-established medical field. The NHS provides access to gastroenterologists through referrals, though wait times can be significant depending on the region. Private gastroenterology services are available for those seeking faster treatment. The role of a gastroenterologist in the UK is crucial for managing digestive disorders and bariatric surgery outcomes, as well as performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as endoscopies and colonoscopies.

The post-op sleeve diet is vital for healing and weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy. It begins with liquids, followed by pureed foods, and eventually includes solid foods. Protein intake is prioritized, and patients must avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods to prevent complications like nausea or dumping syndrome.

Common gastritis symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Chronic gastritis may cause long-term discomfort, while acute cases can result in sharp pain. Treatment often involves antacids, antibiotics (for bacterial infections), and lifestyle modifications like dietary changes.

Sleeve banding combines two bariatric procedures: the gastric sleeve and an adjustable gastric band. It is a less common technique used to enhance the weight-loss results of the sleeve by adding additional restriction through the band. However, complications from the band have made it less favorable in recent years.

Weight management involves long-term strategies to maintain a healthy weight, including diet, exercise, behavioral changes, and sometimes medical interventions like surgery or medication. A well-rounded weight management plan focuses on sustainable habits rather than quick fixes, emphasizing portion control, balanced nutrition, and physical activity.

The NHS in the UK has started prescribing Wegovy to patients who struggle with obesity and have failed to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise. This medication is part of a broader initiative to provide patients with additional tools to combat the obesity epidemic. Wegovy is typically prescribed alongside lifestyle changes to maximize its effectiveness.

Roux-en-Y bypass is another term for the RNY procedure. This surgery helps patients lose weight by creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. The result is a reduced ability to absorb calories and nutrients. Patients who undergo RNY experience rapid weight loss, but it also requires them to make permanent changes to their diet and lifestyle to avoid complications like dumping syndrome, where food moves too quickly from the... +More

The cost of gastric band surgery in the UK ranges from £1,450 to £8,000 at private clinics. The NHS may cover the surgery for patients who meet specific health criteria, such as a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with obesity-related health conditions.

Sleeve bariatric surgery, also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is a restrictive procedure where 80% of the stomach is removed. This reduces stomach capacity, limiting food intake and helping with significant weight loss. It is one of the most popular forms of bariatric surgery due to its effectiveness and relatively lower risk compared to bypass surgeries.

Weight loss helpers include various tools and strategies designed to support weight loss, such as meal planning apps, fitness trackers, supplements, and professional guidance from nutritionists or personal trainers. These aids can provide structure, motivation, and accountability for individuals on their weight-loss journey.

In the UK, gastroenterology is a well-established medical field. The NHS provides access to gastroenterologists through referrals, though wait times can be significant depending on the region. Private gastroenterology services are available for those seeking faster treatment. The role of a gastroenterologist in the UK is crucial for managing digestive disorders and bariatric surgery outcomes, as well as performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as endoscopies and colonoscopies.

The "Skinny Pen" refers to a weight-loss medication called liraglutide (brand name Saxenda) that is administered through a daily injection. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite, helping patients feel fuller for longer. This treatment is often used for individuals who struggle with obesity but are not candidates for surgery or who need additional help in managing their weight post-bariatric surgery. The drug is available by prescription and is used in conjunction with diet and exercise.

Wegovy is available through the NHS for patients meeting specific criteria. To qualify, individuals generally need to have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as diabetes or hypertension. Wegovy is a relatively new option and is prescribed under careful medical supervision.

RNY reversal is the process of undoing the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Although rare, reversals are sometimes necessary due to complications such as malnutrition, severe dumping syndrome, or other medical issues.

Similar to slimming injections, fat loss injections such as lipotropic injections are designed to enhance metabolism and fat-burning processes. These injections often contain a combination of nutrients like B12, amino acids, and other compounds that may help with fat breakdown, but their efficacy varies.

The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight-loss treatment available in the UK. A soft silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach and inflated, reducing the amount of food the stomach can hold. This procedure helps patients feel fuller faster and is often used as a temporary measure to kickstart weight loss.

Gastritis can sometimes cause referred pain that radiates to the back, although this is not a common symptom. If a patient experiences back pain along with gastritis symptoms like nausea, bloating, or indigestion, it could indicate a more severe condition or complications such as ulcers.